Dodgers forcing Braves to make tough decision about Chris Sale

Key Points:

• The Atlanta Braves face a critical decision in their National League Division Series against the Dodgers: whether to start ace pitcher Chris Sale on Sunday or save him for later games, risking three consecutive elimination games without their best starter.
• Sale, a 10-time All-Star with a 2.16 ERA this season and strong performance against the Dodgers, has not followed his usual pregame routine between starts, raising questions about his readiness.
• Braves manager Walt Weiss emphasized Sale’s health and willingness as the key factor, suggesting Sale will pitch in the series but remaining noncommittal about the exact game.
• Starting Sale on Sunday could allow him to pitch again on regular rest in a potential Game 5, while delaying his start might limit his availability later in the series.
• The Dodgers have multiple top-tier starters, giving them flexibility, whereas the Braves have fewer options, making the decision on Sale’s usage pivotal for Atlanta’s chances.